Junction box

ABSTRACT

A junction box for receiving electrical cables and for housing electrical components is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a base member having a recessed region and a lid member positionable over the recessed region of the base member to form an enclosure. The lid member and the base member are coupleable on one side by one or more hinges and on a side opposite the one or more hinges by a clasp assembly. The clasp assembly is capable of being locked and unlocked by two independent locking mechanisms. A plurality of concentric lower flanges may extend from a lower surface of the base member, such that a first cable conduit may be slidably engaged to one of the plurality of lower flanges. A plurality of concentric upper flanges may extend from an upper surface of the base member, such that a second cable conduit may be slidably engaged to one of the plurality upper flanges. One or more upper knock-out elements may be located on the upper surface of the base member inside a diameter of the outermost one of the plurality of concentric upper flanges. The one or more upper knock-out elements may be removable from the base member to form an upper aperture therein, such that a cable may extend from an interior of the second cable conduit through the upper aperture and into the enclosure.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The invention pertains to apparatus for housing electricalconnections and/or other electrical components. Particular embodimentsof the invention have application housing terminal connectors fortelephone, cable television and/or other telecommunications lines.

BACKGROUND

[0002] In the telecommunications industry, it is often necessary toelectrically connect and/or reconfigure connections by way of whichtelecommunications signals are provided to subscribers. Such connectionsmay have to be made or to be reconfigured to provide service to one ormore subscribers in a building, a group of buildings or individual unitswithin a building.

[0003] It is desirable to provide a plurality of relatively easilyreplaceable, interchangeable and reconfigurable connections in a singlelocation (for a particular building, for example), such that connectionsand/or changes to connections may be made with a minimum effort. Adevice capable of providing one or more electrical connections isreferred to herein as a “terminal connector”.

[0004] There is a general desire to locate terminal connectors inweather resistant housings which may be conveniently located in outdoorlocations, such that connections may be made, changed and/orreconfigured by service technicians of telecom companies or otherservice providing organizations without having to enter buildings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] A junction box for receiving electrical cables and for housingelectrical components is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a basemember having a recessed region and a lid member positionable over therecessed region of the base member to form an enclosure. The lid memberand the base member are coupleable on one side by one or more hinges andon a side opposite the one or more hinges by a clasp assembly. The claspassembly is capable of being locked and unlocked by two independentlocking mechanisms.

[0006] A plurality of concentric lower flanges may extend from a lowersurface of the base member, such that a first cable conduit may beslidably engaged to one of the plurality of lower flanges.

[0007] A plurality of concentric upper flanges may extend from an uppersurface of the base member, such that a second cable conduit may beslidably engaged to one of the plurality upper flanges. One or moreupper knock-out elements may be located on the upper surface of the basemember inside a diameter of the outermost one of the plurality ofconcentric upper flanges. The one or more upper knock-out elements maybe removable from the base member to form an upper aperture therein,such that a cable may extend from an interior of the second cableconduit through the upper aperture and into the enclosure.

[0008] Further features and applications of the invention are describedbelow.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] In drawings which depict non-limiting embodiments of theinvention:

[0010]FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a junction box in a closedconfiguration according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0011]FIG. 2 is an elevated plan view of a front side of the junctionbox of FIG. 1;

[0012]FIG. 3 is an elevated plan view of a back side of the junction boxof FIG. 1;

[0013]FIG. 4 is an elevated plan view of the top of the junction box ofFIG. 1;

[0014]FIG. 5 is an elevated plan view of the bottom of the junction boxof FIG. 1;

[0015]FIG. 6 is an elevated plan view of a hinged side of the junctionbox of FIG. 1;

[0016]FIG. 7 is an elevated plan view of a clasp side of the junctionbox of FIG. 1;

[0017]FIG. 8 is an elevated plan view of the junction box of FIG. 1 inan open configuration;

[0018]FIG. 9 is a sectional view of a particular type of cable adaptermounted to the junction box of FIG. 1;

[0019]FIG. 10 is a partial isometric exploded view showing the claspassembly of the junction box of FIG. 1;

[0020]FIG. 11 is an elevated plan view of the junction box of FIG. 8housing a first type of grounding bar;

[0021]FIG. 12 depicts an isometric view of the junction box of FIG. 11housing a first type of terminal connector;

[0022]FIG. 13 is an elevated plan view of the junction box of FIG. 8housing a second type of grounding bar;

[0023]FIG. 14 depicts an isometric view of the junction box of FIG. 13housing a second type of terminal connector;

[0024]FIG. 15 is an isometric view of a junction box in closedconfiguration according to another embodiment of the invention;

[0025]FIG. 16 is an elevated plan view of a front side of the junctionbox of FIG. 15;

[0026]FIG. 17 is an elevated plan view of a back side of the junctionbox of FIG. 15;

[0027]FIG. 18 is an elevated plan view of the top of the junction box ofFIG. 15;

[0028]FIG. 19 is an elevated plan view of the bottom of the junction boxof FIG. 15;

[0029]FIG. 20 is an elevated plan view of a hinged side of the junctionbox of FIG. 15;

[0030]FIG. 21 is an elevated plan view of a clasp side of the junctionbox of FIG. 15; and,

[0031]FIG. 22 is an elevated plan view of the junction box of FIG. 15 inan open configuration.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] Throughout the following description, specific details are setforth in order to provide a more thorough understanding of theinvention. However, the invention may be practiced without theseparticulars. In other instances, well known elements have not been shownor described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the invention.Accordingly, the specification and drawings are to be regarded in anillustrative, rather than a restrictive, sense.

[0033] The invention disclosed herein relates to a junction boxapparatus for housing one or more terminal connectors and/or otherelectrical components. Although it may be used for a wide variety ofapplications, the junction box of the present invention is particularlysuited for housing surge protecting terminal connectors, which arewidely used in the telecommunications industry. The junction box isdesigned with a number of features making it suitable for outdoor use.Such features include: a locking clasp mechanism that simultaneouslyprovides security for the junction box and dual accessibility to thejunction box for both subscribers and service technicians; a terminalconnector platform located on the junction box lid to provide easyaccess to terminal connectors housed in the junction box, such thatconnections may be safely and easily made, changed and/or reconfigured;a plurality of “knock-out” apertures at various locations on the base ofthe junction box that provide access to the junction box for varioustypes of cables and conduits; mounting features located on the base ofthe junction box (i.e. away from the terminal connectors and/or othercomponents) which permit the junction box to be mounted to the outsideof a building or other support structure via a variety of fasteners; andsealed cable entry and water drainage features that help to weatherproofthe junction box and the terminal connectors and/or other componentshoused therein. These features may be provided individually or in anycombination.

[0034] Throughout the following description, the term “cable” is used todescribe any wire, conduit, cable or the like which is capable ofcarrying electrical signals or power. As used in the followingdescription, “cable(s)” may comprise one individual cable or a pluralityof individual cables. “Cable(s)” should also be understood to includefiber optic cables and pluralities of individual cables which may begrouped together and enclosed in a single sheath or conduit. In general,cables used to carry telecommunications signals comprise two individualcables, one of which is a ground cable and the other of which is asignal carrying cable. In operation, the junction box of the presentinvention receives one or more cables and houses one or more terminalconnectors (and/or other electrical components). Terminal connectorsfacilitate connections between the various cables received by thejunction box.

[0035]FIGS. 1 through 7 depict various views of a junction box 10according to a particular embodiment of the invention in a closedconfiguration. FIG. 8 depicts junction box 10 in an open configuration.

[0036] When junction box 10 is in its closed configuration depicted inFIGS. 1 through 7, junction box 10 forms a substantially hollow, sixsided enclosure having a front side 14, a back side 20, a bottom side16, a top side 18, a clasp side 12 and a hinge side 22. Preferably,junction box 10 is made out of PVC, another plastic or another suitablynon-conducting, waterproof and flame-retardant material.

[0037] Throughout the following description, a number of conventions areemployed to simplify the explanation of the invention. Where theinvention comprises a plurality of similar elements, the individualelements are referred to using a reference numeral followed by a letter(for example, hinge 44A) and the group of elements is referred tocollectively using the reference numeral alone (for example, hinges 44).The words “inward” and “inwardly” refer to a direction that extends fromthe outside of junction box 10 towards the interior of junction box 10.Similarly, the words “outward” and “outwardly” refer to a direction thatextends from the interior of junction box 10 towards the outside ofjunction box 10.

[0038] Junction box 10 comprises a base member 24 and a lid member 26,which are joined to one another on hinge side 22 by a plurality ofhinges 44. Hinges 44 facilitate pivotal movement of lid member 26relative to base member 24, such that lid member 26 may swing open frombase member 24 on clasp side 12. In the closed configuration of FIGS. 1through 7, clasp assembly 70 may fasten lid member 26 to base member 24on clasp side 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the height and width oflid member 26 are slightly larger than the height and width of basemember 24, such that the edges 25 (FIG. 8) of base member 24 fitslidably inside the edges 27 of lid member 26 and edges 27 of lid member26 slidably overlap edges 25 of base member 24. As shown in FIG. 1, therecess inside base member 24 is relatively deep in comparison to that oflid member 26.

[0039]FIG. 3 depicts back side 20 of junction box 10. Back side 20comprises a plurality of mounting locations 46, which may be used tomount junction box 10 to the wall of a building or other suitablesupport structure (not shown). Screws, bolts or other fasteners (notshown) may extend from the inner surface 270 (FIG. 8) of base member 24,through apertures (not shown) in mounting locations 46 and into orthrough the support structure. Alternatively, screws, bolts or otherfasteners may extend from the support structure, through apertures inmounting locations 46 and into junction box 10. Preferably, as shown inFIG. 3, mounting locations 46 are elongated, such that fasteners may beinserted through mounting locations 46 in a range of positions. Mountinglocations 46 may comprise pre-threaded apertures to accept threadedfasteners. Preferably, mounting locations 46 are surrounded by stand-offflanges 42 (FIG. 4) that extend outwardly from back side 20, such thatwhen junction box 10 is mounted to a wall or other support structure,back side 20 of junction box 10 is separated slightly from the supportstructure. This separation facilitates water drainage between backside20 and the support structure. In the illustrated embodiment (FIG. 3),junction box 10 is formed without apertures in mounting locations 46. Insuch embodiments, if required, apertures may be “knocked-out” ofmounting locations 46 by driving fasteners through the body of junctionbox 10 or otherwise.

[0040] Back side 20 of junction box 10 incorporates a circularly shapedback aperture 90 (FIG. 3). Back aperture 90 facilitates direct access tothe interior of junction box 10 for one or more cables (not shown).Typically, although not necessarily, such a cable extends from back side20 of junction box 10 directly into the building or support structure towhich junction box 10 is mounted. Back aperture 90 may comprise agrommet (not shown) which extends around its circular edge, such thatwhen an electrical cable is fed through back aperture 90, a seal isformed around the cable. Such a grommet may be made of rubber, siliconeor other suitable materials. Preferably, the grommet is made ofmaterials which are elastomeric and waterproof.

[0041] In the illustrated embodiment, back aperture 90 is not in useand, consequently, is filled with a removable plug 94. Preferably, plug94 is made out of a material or materials which are elastomeric andwaterproof, such as rubber, silicone or plastic. When inserted, plug 94provides a substantially waterproof seal with the circular edge of backaperture 90. In some embodiments (not shown), plug 94 may be pierced toprovide an aperture therein. When plug 94 is pierced in this manner, itmay function as a grommet to form a waterproof seal around a cableinserted through back aperture 90.

[0042] In other embodiments (not shown), plug 94 may be a “knock-out”element, which may be knocked or punched out from base member 24 toleave a corresponding aperture. A knock-out element, such as knock-outplug 94, may be implemented, for example, by forming the walls of basemember 24, such that they have relatively thin regions which surroundthe desired shape of knock-out plug 94. In this manner, knock-out plug94 may be removed from base member 24 (if it is desired to run a cablethrough back aperture 90) or, alternatively, knock-out plug 94 may beleft in place in base member 24 to provide a waterproof wall.

[0043] In this description, an element referred to as a “knock-out”element, may be “knocked-out” or “punched out” from the body of junctionbox 10 to leave a correspondingly shaped aperture in base member 24 orlid member 26. Such a knock-out element may be formed integrally withbase member 24 or lid member 26 or may be a separate piece, which snapsinto base member 24 or lid member 26. Such a knock-out element may beimplemented, for example, by forming the walls of junction box 10, suchthat they have relatively thin regions which surround the desiredknock-out element. In addition, the term “knock-out” is used in thisdescription in conjunction with the aperture which may be formed by aknock-out element. For example, in some embodiments, back aperture 90may be a knock-out aperture, which is formed when circular knock-outplug 94 is removed from base member 24.

[0044] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, back side 20 of base member 24 mayalso incorporate an elongated knock-out element 272. Knock-out element272 may comprise a semi-circular lower portion 274 and elongatedsidewalls 276, which extend upward toward back aperture 90. In someembodiments (not shown) knock-out element 272 may actually comprise aplurality of smaller knock-out elements. When plug 94 is knocked-out orremoved from back aperture 90 and knock-out element 272 is knocked-outof base member 24, the resultant elongated aperture 283 in the back side20 of base member 24 is shaped to facilitate connection to a particulartype of telecommunications cable adapter 282. As shown in FIG. 9, cableadapter 282 receives a conduit 284 containing cable 286 and has its ownenclosed space 288 in which cable 286 has an elbow 289. Elbow 289 causescable 286, which enters cable adapter 282 from a certain location, toexit cable adapter 282 from a different, spaced apart location.

[0045] Back side 20 of base member 24 may also comprise a plurality ofmounting holes 280 which may be used to mount cable adapter 282 to basemember 24. Mounting screws, bolts or other fasteners 285 may be insertedbetween inner surface 270 of base member 24 and cable adapter 282through mounting holes 280. In the illustrated embodiment, mountingholes 280 are slightly elongated on their vertical dimension (FIG. 8) toprovide for easier mounting. Mounting holes 280 may be knockout holes.

[0046] Inner surface 270 of base member 24 may comprise a brace 278,which extends a small distance inwardly from inner surface 270. In theillustrated embodiment, brace 278 is shaped and positioned to follow theperimeter of knock-out element 272 and back aperture 90 (FIG. 8). Brace278 may provide additional structural support to base member 24,particularly when elongated aperture 283 is created by removing bothknock-out element 272 and back aperture 90 from back side 20 of basemember 24.

[0047] As shown in FIG. 8, terminal connector 290 may be mounted on theinner surface 270 of base member 24. In the illustrated embodiment,terminal connector 290 is mounted to base member 24 using fasteners 292,which extend from an inner side of terminal connector 290 into mountingholes 48 (FIGS. 12 and 14). Although the number of fasteners 292 and/ormounting holes 48 may vary in different embodiments, the illustratedembodiment includes four fasteners 292 and four associated mountingholes 48. In the illustrated embodiment, mounting holes 48 comprisestand-off extensions 294 (FIG. 14) that extend inwardly from innersurface 270 of base member 24. Preferably, mounting holes 48 arethreaded.

[0048] In the illustrated embodiment, fasteners 292 comprise threadedmetallic shafts (which are partially inserted into mounting holes 48)and nuts, which screw onto an inward side of the threaded shafts to holdterminal connector 290 in place. Additionally or alternatively, terminalfasteners 292 may be metallic screws, which thread through terminalconnector 290 into mounting holes 48. In general, terminal connector 290may be mounted to base member 24 by any suitable means. Preferably,however, fasteners 292 are conductive, so that they may additionally beused to form connections on terminal connector 290.

[0049] Although mounting holes 48 and terminal connector 290 may bepositioned at any suitable location on an inner wall of junction box 10,the location shown in the illustrated embodiment is preferable, becausethis location maintains a separation between terminal connector 290 andother cables, components and terminal connectors which may be housed injunction box 10.

[0050] Terminal connector 290 includes a terminal bar 294, which extendsbetween fasteners 292 and mounting holes 48. In typical applications,terminal bar 294 is a conductive grounding bar and extends between allof fasteners 292, such that all of fasteners 292 are electricallygrounded to terminal bar 294. In alternative embodiments, terminal bar294 may be non-conductive or may comprise a plurality of smallerterminal bars, which are electrically isolated from one another.

[0051] Cables (not shown) may be connected to terminal connector 290using a variety of connection means, such as screw connectors, crimpconnectors, apertured connectors, “U-shaped” connectors and the like. Inthe illustrated embodiment, terminal connector 290 is shown with twoscrew on connectors 298. In general, however, connectors 298 may be anytype of electrical connector.

[0052] Top side 18 of base member 24 comprises a substantially circulartop knock-out aperture 50 (FIG. 4), which may be used when cable accessto junction box 10 is required through top side 18 of base member 24. Inthe illustrated embodiment, top knock-out aperture 50 comprises twoconcentric, substantially circular flanges: outer flange 56 and innerflange 58. Providing two flanges 56 and 58 permits conduits of differentsizes to be mounted to box 10. If cable access to junction box 10through top side 18 of base member 24 is required, then a user mayremove (i.e. knock-out) a portion of knock-out aperture 50 that isinterior to outer flange 56.

[0053] Preferably, the outer circumferential surface of outer flange 56is sized to receive and slidably engage the inner circumferentialsurface of an industry-standard cable conduit (not shown). For example,the outer circumferential surface of outer flange 56 may be sized toreceive the inner circumferential surface of a nominal 2″ (50 mm) cableconduit. Although 2″ steel and PVC cable conduits are widely used in thetelecommunications industry, cable conduits made out of almost anymaterial may be mounted to flange 56. The size of outer flange 56 may bevaried to accommodate conduits of different sizes. Gravity and,possibly, frictional contact between the outer surface of outer flange56 and the inner surface of the cable conduit, act to secure the conduitto junction box 10 and to provide a substantially waterproof seal. Whentop aperture 50 is knocked-out, a cable may be extended from the cableconduit, through top side 18 of base member 24 and into junction box 10.

[0054] Inner flange 58 is concentric with outer flange 56 and has anouter circumferential surface sized to receive and slidably engage theinner circumferential surface of a smaller-sized cable conduit (notshown). For example, the outer circumferential surface of inner flange58 may be sized to slidably engage the inner circumferential surface ofa nominal 1¼″ (32 mm) Schedule 40 PVC cable conduit. Typically, in thetelecommunications industry, such 1¼″ cable conduits are made from PVC,but cable conduits made from almost any material may be mounted toflange 58. The size of inner flange 58 may be varied to accommodateconduits of different sizes. Gravity and the frictional contact betweenthe outer surface of inner flange 58 and the inner surface of the cableconduit act to secure the conduit to junction box 10 and to provide asubstantially waterproof seal. When top aperture 50 is knocked-out, acable may be extended from the cable conduit, through top side 18 ofbase member 24 and into junction box 10.

[0055] Because top aperture 50 may be exposed to rain water, it isdesirable to avoid having water or moisture pool on top surface 18 ofjunction box 10. When a cable conduit is engaged to outer flange 56,water accumulation is not normally an issue, because water may simplydrain away from top aperture 50. However, when a cable conduit isengaged to inner flange 58, water may tend to accumulate in the regionbetween inner flange 58 and outer flange 56. For this reason, outerflange 56 includes a slot 60 that extends outwardly from the top side 18of base member 24 to the rim of outer flange 56 (FIGS. 3 and 4). When acable conduit is engaged to inner flange 58, slot 60 provides waterdrainage away from the region between inner flange 58 and outer flange56. This drainage helps to prevent water from leaking into junction box10 through top aperture 50.

[0056] In the illustrated embodiment, junction box 10 also comprises acircular top aperture cover 52 (FIG. 1), which is sized to slidably andfrictionally engage the inner circumferential surface of outer flange56. Cover 52 prevents water accumulation on top side 18 of junction box10. If top aperture 50 has not been knocked-out, then cover 52 preventswater accumulation in the region inside inner flange 58. If top aperture50 was initially knocked-out and then, at some later point in time, itis desired to close top aperture 50 (because, for example, there is nolonger any need to run cable into junction box 10 through top aperture50), then cover 52 may be placed on top aperture 50 to prevent rainwaterand other moisture from entering junction box 10. Top aperture cover 52may comprise a lip 62, which extends in a radial direction atop outerflange 56. Lip 62 helps to move water away from top aperture 50, andfacilitates easy removal of cover 52 from top aperture 50.

[0057] Bottom side 16 of base member 24 comprises a substantiallycircular bottom knock-out aperture 30 (FIG. 5), which is used when cableaccess to junction box 10 is required through bottom side 16 of basemember 24. In the illustrated embodiment, bottom knock-out aperture 30includes three concentric, circular flanges: outer flange 38, innerflange 36 and middle flange 37. If cable access to junction box 10 isrequired through bottom side 16 of base member 24, then a user mayknock-out a first knock-out element 33 from bottom knock-out aperture 30and feed the cable through the resulting hole (not shown). Preferably,the first knock-out element 33 of bottom aperture 30 is located inside adiameter of inner flange 36. A grommet (not shown) may be used to form aseal around an inserted cable. Preferably, the grommet is elastomericand waterproof, to prevent water from entering box 10 by way of bottomknock-out aperture 30. In alternative embodiments, bottom aperture 30may comprise a preformed first aperture (not shown) which is preferablylocated inside the diameter of inner flange 36. Such a preformed firstaperture may be filled with a an elastomeric plug when not in use.

[0058] Preferably, the inner circumferential surface of outer flange 38is sized to receive and slidably engage the outer circumferentialsurface of an industry standard cable conduit (not shown). For example,the inner circumferential surface of outer flange 38 may be sized toreceive the outer circumferential surface of a nominal 2″ (50 mm) PVCSchedule 40 cable conduit, which is widely used in thetelecommunications industry. Cable from the cable conduit may beinserted into junction box 10 through a knocked-out portion of bottomaperture 30.

[0059] The slidable engagement between the inner surface of outer flange38 and the outer surface of the cable conduit may provide a friction fitthat helps to secure the cable conduit to flange 38. Bottom aperture 30also comprises a screw-hole 32, which extends outwardly from an outercircumferential surface of flange 38. To assist with securing the cableconduit to flange 38, fastening screw 34 (FIG. 1) may be insertedthrough screw-hole 32 and flange 38 to bear against the outer surface ofthe cable conduit.

[0060] Middle flange 37 is concentric with outer flange 38 and has aninner circumferential surface sized to receive and slidably engage theouter circumferential surface of a smaller-sized cable conduit (notshown). For example, the inner circumferential surface of middle flange37 may be sized to slidably engage the outer circumferential surface ofa nominal 1″ (25 mm) PVC Schedule 40 cable conduit. Such 1″ conduits arecommonly used in the telecommunications industry. Cable from the cableconduit may be inserted into junction box 10 through a knocked-outportion of bottom aperture 30.

[0061] The slidable engagement between the inner surface of middleflange 37 and the outer surface of the cable conduit may provide afriction fit that helps to secure the cable conduit to middle flange 37.Middle flange 37 of bottom aperture 30 also comprises a partial slot 35(FIGS. 5 and 14) that extends upwardly from the bottom rim of flange 37partway through flange 37 toward bottom side 16 of junction box 10. Whena cable conduit is slidably engaged to the inner circumferential surfaceof middle flange 37, fastening screw 34 may be inserted throughscrew-hole 32, outer flange 38 and partial slot 35 to bear against theouter surface of the cable conduit and to assist with securing the cableconduit to flange 37. Partial slot 35 may be implemented as a simpleaperture (i.e. a screw hole).

[0062] Inner flange 36 is concentric with both outer flange 38 andmiddle flange 37 and has an outer circumferential surface sized toreceive and slidably engage the inner circumferential surface of asmaller-sized cable conduit (not shown). For example, the outercircumferential surface of inner flange 36 may be sized to slidablyengage the inner circumferential surface of a nominal ¾″ (18 mm) PVCSchedule 40 cable conduit, which is widely used in thetelecommunications industry. Cable from the cable conduit may beinserted into junction box 10 through a knocked-out portion of bottomaperture 30.

[0063] The slidable engagement between the outer surface of inner flange36 and the inner surface of the cable conduit may provide a friction fitthat helps to secure the cable conduit to inner flange 36. In addition,when a cable conduit is slidably engaged to the outer circumferentialsurface of inner flange 36, fastening screw 34 may be inserted throughscrew-hole 32, outer flange 38 and partial slot 35 in middle flange 37.In this manner, screw 34 may be made to bear against the outer surfaceof the cable conduit to assist with securing the cable conduit to theouter circumferential surface of inner flange 36.

[0064] As discussed above, conduits mounted to flanges 36, 37, 38 ofbottom aperture 30 may be made of PVC or steel, as is common in thetelecommunications industry. However, conduits made from almost anymaterial may be secured to flanges 36, 37, 38.

[0065] If the cable contained in a conduit is too thick to fit throughinner knock-out section 33, then one or more additional knock-outsections may be removed from bottom aperture 30 to provide a largeraperture into junction box 10. For example, bottom aperture 30 maycomprise a plurality of separate knock-out elements (not shown). Afirst, inner knock-out element (not shown) may be located interior toinner flange 36, such that when it is knocked out, all flanges 36, 37,38 are still present on base member 24. A second, mid-sized knock-outelement (not shown) may be located interior to middle flange 37, butexterior to inner flange 26. Such a mid-sized knock-out element may beattached to inner flange 36, such that when the mid-sized knock-outelement is knocked out, inner flange 36 is removed from base member 24,forming a larger aperture into box 10. A third, large-sized knock-outelement (not shown) may be located interior to outer flange 38 andexterior to middle flange 37. Such a large-sized knock-out element maybe attached to middle flange 37 (and possibly, to inner flange 36), suchthat when the large-sized knock-out element is knocked out, middleflange 37 (and possibly, inner flange 36) are removed from base member24, forming an even larger aperture into box 10.

[0066] In the illustrated embodiment, bottom side 16 of base member 24also includes one or more additional knock-out apertures 40A, 40B (FIG.5). When knocked-out, apertures 40 may be used to provide access tojunction box 10 for additional cables and/or individual cables.Optionally, apertures 40 may be fitted with an elastomeric andwaterproof grommet (not shown) to provide additional protection fromwater and moisture entering the interior of junction box 10. In theillustrated embodiment, bottom side 16 of base member 24 also includesan aperture 41 for the drainage of moisture. Aperture 41 may compriseone or more knockout elements. In addition, aperture 41 may befabricated with a partially preformed aperture therein.

[0067] Hinged side 22 and clasp side 12 of base member 24 may have oneor more additional knock-out side apertures 300, 302 (FIG. 8) foradmitting additional cables and/or cable conduits into junction box 10.For example, knock-out side apertures 300, 302 may be sized to receive1″ (25 mm) cable conduits common in the telecommunications industry.Knock-out side apertures 300, 302 may generally be sized to fit conduitsof various sizes. After either side knock-out aperture 300, 302 isremoved, its rim may be fitted with an elastomeric and waterproofgrommet (not shown) which prevents moisture from entering junction box10.

[0068] Locking clasp assembly 70 may be used to secure junction box 10in its closed configuration (FIGS. 1 through 7) by securing base member24 to lid member 26 on clasp side 12 of junction box 10. Locking claspassembly 70 may include a plurality of security measures which areuseful to facilitate independent access to the interior of junction box10 by two independent people/organizations and to prevent unwantedvandalism or tampering with the contents of junction box 10. Access fortwo different people/organizations is useful, for example, to provideindependent access to the service technicians of two different telecom(or other service) organizations technicians or to provide independentaccess to telecom (or other) service technicians and to telecomsubscribers.

[0069] The components and operation of locking clasp assembly 70 shownin FIG. 10. Locking clasp assembly 70 comprises: a lid flange 72, whichextends outwardly from clasp side 12 of lid member 26; a base flange 76,which extends outwardly from clasp side 12 of base member 24; and anintermediate clasp member 74.

[0070] When junction box 10 is in its closed orientation, lid member 26and base member 24 are brought together with intermediate clasp member74 between the two. Intermediate clasp member 74 is fixed to base flange76 by a locking screw 89 (FIG. 8), which screws from intermediate claspmember 74 into base flange 76 through a screw hole 86 (FIG. 3).Preferably, as shown in FIG. 8, locking screw 89 has a head thatrequires a special key or tool to operate. Service technicians from thetelecommunications company (or other service organization that owns,maintains or operates the components inside junction box 10) may beprovided with copies of the special key or tool, such that they are theonly ones able to operate locking screw 89. Preferably, aperture 84 inlid flange 72 is sufficiently large to accommodate the head of lockingscrew 89, which protrudes through aperture 84 of lid flange 72, suchthat the head of locking screw 89 may be accessed with the proper key ortool. Hood extension 82 of lid flange 72 helps to prevent people fromtampering with locking screw 89.

[0071] In addition to being mounted to base flange 76, intermediateclasp member 74 may be fixed to lid flange 72 by a conventional screw 88(FIG. 1). Screw 88 extends from lid flange 72 into intermediate claspmember 74 through screw hole 78. Clasp assembly 70 maintains junctionbox 10 in its closed orientation, because locking screw 89 securesintermediate clasp member 74 to base flange 76 and conventional screw 88secures intermediate clasp member 74 to lid flange 72.

[0072] In the closed orientation, a subscriber (or other user) may locklid flange 72 to intermediate clasp member 74 by inserting aconventional key or combination padlock (not shown) through locking hole80. The padlock prevents unauthorized entry into junction box 10,because it locks lid flange 72 to intermediate flange member 74. Withlocking screw 89 locking intermediate clasp member 74 to base flange 76,lid member 26 may not be separated from base member 24. When asubscriber (or other user) wants to access junction box 10, they simplyunscrew conventional screw 88 from screw hole 78 and remove theirpadlock from hole 80, detaching lid flange 72 from intermediate flangemember 74. In this manner, lid member 26 is allowed to swing away frombase member 24, leaving intermediate clasp 74 attached to base flange 76via locking screw 89.

[0073] A service technician (i.e. a second user) with the special key ortool required to operate the locking screw 89 may independently openjunction box 10, even though a lock has been placed through hole 80.Using the special tool, the service technician may unscrew locking screw89 through hole 84 in lid flange 72, such that intermediate clasp member74 may be separated from base flange 76. In this manner, junction box 10may be opened by separating lid member 26 from base member 24, leavingintermediate clasp 74 attached to lid flange 72 by screw 88 and thepadlock inserted through hole 80.

[0074] The above described dual locking mechanism of clasp assembly 70provides the advantage that junction box 10 is always locked and issecure from tampering. The dual opening mechanism of clasp assembly 70is advantageous, because a first user (such as a subscriber) mayindependently access junction box 10. Such access to junction box 10 mayallow a subscriber to perform simple maintenance or minor changes to theconnections in junction box 10 without requiring the presence of aservice technician. The dual opening mechanism of clasp assembly 70 hasthe additional advantage that a service technician, may alsoindependently access junction box 10 without requiring the subscriber toremove their lock from hole 80. The service technician may then makemore substantial changes or repairs to the connections and/or othercomponents contained in junction box 10. The dual independent accessclasp assembly 70 may also permit dual independent access to techniciansfrom two of more different service providing organizations, such as atelecom company and a cable company, for example.

[0075] As depicted in FIG. 8, a terminal connector platform 204 may bemounted to the inner surface 250 of lid member 26 by fasteners 206.Fasteners 206 may be screws which screw into screw holes (not shown)formed integrally on inner surface 250 of lid member 26.

[0076] Junction box 10 may house various types of terminal connectorsand/or other electrical components, which may be mounted on platform 204or directly on inner surface 250 of lid member 26. In the illustratedembodiment of FIG. 8, terminal connector platform 204 comprises a numberof features designed to accommodate various types of terminal connectorsor other components, which may be mounted thereon. These features areshown in FIGS. 11 and 12, which depict a first type of grounding bar 216and a first type of terminal connector 200, and to FIGS. 13 and 14,which depict a second type of grounding bar 230 and a second type ofterminal connector 202. Typically (although not necessarily), terminalconnectors, such as terminal connectors 200, 202, are provided by thetelecommunications company or other service providing organization thatowns and/or maintains junction box 10 and/or operates the servicesrequiring junction box 10.

[0077] As shown in FIG. 8, platform 204 may comprise a plurality ofapertures 208, which may be used for mounting various types of terminalconnectors and/or other electrical components (not shown) to lid member26 of junction box 10. Apertures 208 may also be used as additional oralternative mounting apertures through which fasteners (not shown) mayextend to mount platform 204 to inner surface 250 of lid member 26.

[0078] Platform 204 may also comprise a plurality of tie strap brackets242, which may be used (in conjunction with tie straps) to restraincables on the inside of junction box 10. Preferably, tie strap brackets242 are positioned at spaced apart locations on platform 204.

[0079] Preferably, platform 204 comprises a screw hole 214, which issurrounded by a stand-off flange 212 that projects inwardly fromplatform 204 (FIG. 8). Screw hole 214 and stand-off flange 212 may beused to mount and support different types of grounding bars. Suchgrounding bars may provide a common ground connection to terminalconnectors housed in junction box 10.

[0080]FIG. 11 depicts a first type of grounding bar 216 which is used inconjunction with terminal connectors 200 of FIG. 12. Referring to FIGS.8 and 11, elevated section 217B of grounding bar 216 extends inwardlyfrom the base of grounding bar 216 to fit over stand-off flange 212 andis mounted to stand-off flange 212 by a threaded fastener (not shown)inserted into screw hole 214. Grounding bar 216 is also mounted toplatform 204 by fasteners 220, which screw respectively into screw holes210 of platform 204.

[0081] As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, grounding bar 216 comprises threeelevated sections 217A, 217B, 217C, which extend inwardly from the baseof grounding bar 216. Terminal connectors 200 may be grounded andfastened to elevated sections 217 of grounding bar 216. Terminalconnectors 200 may comprise metallic mounting/grounding brackets 222,each of which may be fastened to an associated one of elevated sections217 by fasteners (not shown). Such fasteners may comprise conventionalmetallic threaded studs and nuts. Additionally or alternatively, suchfasteners may support other types of electrical connectors, such as tabconnectors, screw connectors, crimp connectors and the like. Any type ofelectrical connector capable of connecting to the fasteners orconnecting directly to grounding bar 216 may be used.

[0082] In operation, telecommunications cables entering junction box 10may be connected to one another by connecting their ground wires to thecommon grounding bar 216 and by connecting their respective signal wiresto connectors 224, 226 on either side of a terminal connector 200. Inthe illustrated embodiment, connectors 224, 226 are screw typeconnectors. In general, connectors 224, 226 may be any type ofelectrical connector.

[0083] The location of terminal connectors 200 on lid member 26 ofjunction box 10 facilitates easy connection and changing of connections.When junction box 10 is opened terminal connectors 200 and theirconnectors 224, 226 stand out from inner surface 250 of lid member 26rather than being recessed on the inside of base member 24. Whenjunction box 10 is closed, terminal connectors 200 are housed in therelatively deep recess of base member 24.

[0084]FIG. 13 depicts a second type of grounding bar 230, which is usedin conjunction with the terminal connectors 202 of FIG. 14. Referring toFIGS. 8, 13 and 14, platform 204 may comprise a slot 234 and a pair ofbrackets 236 located at either end of slot 234. Grounding bar 230 may beinserted into slot 234 in an orientation that is substantiallyorthogonal to platform 204 and each end of grounding bar 230 may beinserted through a corresponding one of brackets 236. In this manner,slot 234 and brackets 236 help to secure grounding bar 230 in place onplatform 204. Transversely extending tab 232 of grounding bar 230extends over and is mounted to stand-off flange 212 by a fastener (notshown), which may be threadably inserted into screw hole 214.

[0085] As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, grounding bar 230 comprises aplurality of inwardly projecting members 238, one of which correspondswith each terminal connector 202. Although the number of terminalconnectors 202 and inwardly projecting members 238 may vary, theillustrated embodiment depicts six terminal connectors 202. Each ofterminal connectors 202 has a grounding hood (not shown) on a first endthereof. The grounding hood of each terminal connector 202 fits slidablyover a corresponding one of inwardly projecting members 238 to form afriction fit with the inwardly projecting member 238. The friction fitbetween inwardly projecting members 238 and the grounding hood ofterminal connectors 202 establishes the ground connection for terminalconnectors 202 and assists in mounting the first end of terminalconnectors 202 to platform 204. As best seen in FIG. 8, platform 204 maycomprise a plurality of apertures 240. Apertures 240 may be sized,positioned and shaped, such that specially designed legs (not shown) ona second end of terminal connectors 202 may project through apertures240 and extend under platform 204 to secure the second end of terminalconnectors 202 to lid member 26.

[0086] Each of terminal connectors 202 comprises two specializedconnectors 242, 244 which may be specifically designed to receive thesignal carrying wires of conventional telecommunications cables (notshown). In operation, telecommunications cables entering junction box 10may be connected to one another by connecting their ground wires to thecommon grounding bar 216 and by connecting their respective signalcarrying wires to specialized connectors 242, 244.

[0087] The location of terminal connectors 202 on lid member 26 ofjunction box 10 facilitates easy connection and changing of connections.When junction box 10 is opened, terminal connectors 202 and theirconnectors 242, 244 stand out from inner surface 250 of lid member 26rather than being recessed on the inside of base member 24. Whenjunction box 10 is closed, terminal connectors 202 are housed in therelatively deep recess of base number 24.

[0088] FIGS. 15-22 depict a junction box 10′ according to an alternativeembodiment of the invention. Junction box 10′ is substantially similarto junction box 10 of FIGS. 1-14, except that junction box 10′ isdesigned to be mounted in the interior of a wall. Typically, althoughnot necessarily, junction box 10′ is mounted to the interior of a wallduring the wall's fabrication. As junction box 10′ is similar tojunction box 10, the features of junction box 10′ are depicted andreferred to in this description using the same reference numerals as thesimilar features of junction box 10 followed by a “prime” symbol (′).

[0089] Using fasteners 23′, a pair of flanges 28A′, 28B′ (collectively,28′) are mounted to junction box 10′ on its clasp side 12′ and hingeside 22′. Although fasteners 23′ are depicted as nuts and bolts, anysuitable fasteners may be used to mount flanges 28′ to junction box 10′.Junction box 10′ includes a pair of holes 29′ on each of clasp side 12′and hinge side 22′. Fasteners 23′ extend through flanges 28′ and holes29′ to mount flanges 28′ to junction box 10′. As shown in FIGS. 20 and21, holes 29′ may be elongated to provide positional adjustability forflanges 28′.

[0090] Flanges 28′ are provided for junction box 10′ to the framework ofa wall, such that at least a portion of base member 24′ extends towardsthe interior of the wall. A variety of mounting schemes are possible.For example, flanges 28′ may be fastened to the wooden or metal studs ofa wall. Junction box 10′ may be oriented such that lid member 26′ openstowards the exterior of a building or lid member 26′ opens towards theinterior of a building. Flanges 28′ may be made of metal or othersuitable materials.

[0091] Junction box 10′ comprises a top aperture 50′, a bottom aperture30′, a back aperture 90′, an elongated back aperture 272′ and a pair ofside apertures 300′, 302′. Preferably, these apertures are knock-outapertures and are substantially similar to the corresponding knock-outapertures of junction box 10 described above. Each of these aperturesmay also comprise a plurality of knock-out elements, such that a varietyof sizes of apertures may be formed. In the illustrated embodiment,upper aperture 50′ and lower aperture 30′ do not have concentric flanges56, 58 and 36, 37, 38, which respectively surround upper aperture 50 andlower aperture 30 of junction box 10. However, in alternativeembodiments, upper aperture 50′ and lower aperture 30′ may beconstructed with such concentric flanges.

[0092] The interior of junction box 10′ (FIG. 22) may be substantiallysimilar to and include substantially similar features as the interior ofjunction box 10 (FIGS. 8, 11-14).

[0093] As will be apparent to those skilled in the art in the light ofthe foregoing disclosure, many alterations and modifications arepossible in the practice of this invention without departing from thespirit or scope thereof. For example:

[0094] Terminal connector platform 204 is not required by the invention.The features of platform 204, such as stand-off flange 212, screw hole212 and apertures 240 for example, may be formed integrally on innersurface 250 of lid member 26.

[0095] The illustrated terminal connectors 200, 202 of FIGS. 12 and 14comprise surge protection modules commonly used in thetelecommunications industry. However, those skilled in the art willappreciate that many variations of terminal connectors could be mountedto platform 204 or mounted directly on inner surface 250 of lid member26. In general, the specific terminal connectors used inside junctionbox 10 may be varied without departing from the invention. The inventionshould be understood to accommodate any type of suitable terminalconnector that may be mounted on a terminal connector platform ordirectly on inner surface 250 of lid member 26.

[0096] In addition to terminal connectors, various other types ofelectrical components may be housed in junction box 10. Such othercomponents may include, for example: capacitors, switches, relays, ADSLsplitters, HDSL splitters, circuit boards, amplifiers, cable splittersand routers.

[0097] If junction box 10 houses different types of terminal connectors(i.e. terminal connectors different from terminal connectors 200, 202 ofFIGS. 13 and 14) or other electrical components, junction box 10 mayrequire a modified platform 204. Those skilled in the art willappreciate that there are many implementations of platform 204, whichmay be employed to house alternative or additional terminal connectorsor electrical components.

[0098] Locking clasp assembly represents a preferred embodiment of howbase flange 76 and lid clasp 72 may both be independently locked to, andunlocked from, intermediate clasp number 74. Other embodiments arepossible. For example, locking screw 89 may be replaced by aconventional screw having a locking pin that may be inserted through itstip to lock intermediate clasp number 74 to base clasp flange 76.

[0099] Although junction box 10 has been depicted and described ashaving a dual-locking clasp assembly 70, dual locking clasp assembly 70is not necessary. Junction box 10 may include a conventional singlelocking clasp or a non-locking clasp.

[0100] Similar alterations and modifications as those discussed abovemay be made to junction box 10′ and its components.

[0101] Accordingly, the scope of the invention is to be construed inaccordance with the substance defined by the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A junction box for receiving electrical cablesand for housing electrical components, the apparatus comprising: a basemember having a recessed region therein; and a lid member positionableover the recessed region of the base member to form an enclosure, thelid member and base member coupleable on one side by one or more hingesand on a side opposite the one or more hinges by a clasp assembly, theclasp assembly comprising: a base clasp flange extending outwardly fromthe base member; a lid clasp flange extending outwardly from the lidmember; and an intermediate clasp member,  wherein the base and lidclasp flanges may both be independently locked to, and unlocked from,the intermediate clasp member.
 2. A junction box according to claim 1,comprising: a plurality of concentric lower flanges extending from alower surface of the base member, wherein a first cable conduit may beslidably engaged to one of the plurality of lower flanges; a pluralityof concentric upper flanges extending from an upper surface of the basemember, wherein a second cable conduit may be slidably engaged to one ofthe plurality upper flanges; and one or more upper knock-out elementslocated on the upper surface of the base member inside a diameter of anoutermost one of the plurality of concentric upper flanges, the one ormore upper knock-out elements removable from the base member to form anupper aperture therein, such that a cable may extend from an interior ofthe second cable conduit through the upper aperture and into theenclosure.
 3. A junction box according to claim 2 comprising one or morelower knock-out elements located on the lower surface of the base memberinside a diameter of an outermost one of the plurality of concentriclower flanges, the one or more lower knock-out elements removable fromthe base member to form a lower aperture therein, such that a cable mayextend from an interior of the first cable conduit through the loweraperture and into the enclosure.
 4. A junction box according to claim 2comprising a lower aperture located on the lower surface of the basemember inside a diameter of the innermost one of the plurality ofconcentric lower flanges, such that a cable may extend from an interiorof the first cable conduit through the lower aperture and into theenclosure.
 5. A junction box according to claim 4 comprising anelastomeric plug sized and shaped to fill the lower aperture when thelower aperture is not in use.
 6. A junction box according to claim 2comprising a first back knock-out element located on a recessed surfaceof the base member, the first back knock-out element removable from thebase member to form a first back aperture therein, such that a cable mayextend through the first back aperture and into the enclosure.
 7. Ajunction box according to claim 2 comprising a first back aperturelocated on a recessed surface of the base member, such that a cable mayextend through the first back aperture and into the enclosure.
 8. Ajunction box according to claim 7 comprising an elastomeric plug sizedand shaped to fill the first back aperture when the first back apertureis not in use.
 9. A junction box according to claim 7 comprising anelongated knock-out element contiguous with the first back aperture onthe recessed surface of the base member, the elongated knock-out elementremovable from the base member to form an elongated first back aperture.10. A junction box according to claim 9, wherein the elongated knock-outelement comprises a plurality of smaller knock-out elements, each ofwhich is independently removable from the base member.
 11. A junctionbox according to claim 9 comprising a pair of knock-out screw holes,located on the recessed surface of the base member on opposing sides ofthe elongated first back aperture, the screw holes operative to receivefasteners, such that a cable adapter may be mounted to the base member.12. A junction box according to claim 1, wherein the intermediate claspmember comprises a first intermediate clasp aperture and the base claspflange comprises a first base clasp aperture, the first base claspaperture alignable with the first intermediate clasp aperture when thelid member is positioned over the recessed region of the base membersuch that the base clasp flange may be locked to, and unlocked from, theintermediate clasp member by inserting a locking mechanism through thefirst intermediate clasp aperture and at least partially through thefirst base clasp aperture.
 13. A junction box according to claim 12,wherein the locking mechanism is a locking screw comprising a keyhole,wherein a specialized key may be inserted into the keyhole.
 14. Ajunction box according to claim 13, wherein the lid clasp flangecomprises a first lid clasp aperture, the first lid clasp aperturealignable with the first base clasp aperture and the first intermediateclasp aperture when the lid member is positioned over the recessedregion of the base member such that the specialized key may be insertedthrough the first lid clasp aperture and into the keyhole.
 15. Ajunction box according to claim 14, wherein the lid clasp flangecomprises a second lid clasp aperture and the intermediate clasp flangecomprises a second intermediated clasp aperture, the second lid claspaperture alignable with the second intermediate clasp aperture when thelid member is positioned over the recessed region of the base membersuch that the lid clasp flange may be locked to, and unlocked from, theintermediate clasp member by inserting a locking mechanism through thesecond lid clasp aperture and at least partially through the secondintermediate clasp aperture.
 16. A junction box according to claim 2,wherein the plurality of concentric upper flanges comprises an innermostupper flange and an outermost upper flange.
 17. A junction box accordingto claim 16, wherein the outermost upper flange comprises an outercircumferential surface, the outer circumferential surface sized suchthat an inner circumferential surface of a first sized cable conduit maybe slidably engaged to the outer circumferential surface.
 18. A junctionbox according to claim 17, wherein the first sized cable conduit is anominal 2″ cable conduit.
 19. A junction box according to claim 16,wherein the innermost upper flange comprises an outer circumferentialsurface, the outer circumferential surface sized such that an innercircumferential surface of a second sized cable conduit may be slidablyengaged to the outer circumferential surface.
 20. A junction boxaccording to claim 19, wherein the second sized cable conduit is anominal 1¼ cable conduit.
 21. A junction box according to claim 16,wherein the outermost upper flange comprises a slot that extends fromthe upper surface of the base member through the outermost upper flange.22. A junction box according to claim 2, wherein the plurality ofconcentric lower flanges comprises an innermost lower flange, anintermediate lower flange and an outermost lower flange.
 23. A junctionbox according to claim 22, wherein the outermost lower flange comprisesan outer screw hole extending radially through the outermost lowerflange and the intermediate lower flange comprises an intermediate screwhole radially aligned with the outer screw hole.
 24. A junction boxaccording to claim 23, wherein the outermost lower flange comprises aninner circumferential surface, the inner circumferential surface sizedsuch that an outer circumferential surface of a first sized cableconduit may be slidably engaged to the inner circumferential surface andwherein a screw may be inserted through the outer screw hole to bearagainst the outer circumferential surface of the cable conduit.
 25. Ajunction box according to claim 24, wherein the first sized cableconduit is a nominal 2″ cable conduit.
 26. A junction box according toclaim 23, wherein the intermediate lower flange comprises an innercircumferential surface, the inner circumferential surface sized suchthat an outer circumferential surface of a second sized cable conduitmay be slidably engaged to the inner circumferential surface and whereina screw may be inserted through the outer screw hole and theintermediate screw hole to bear against the outer circumferentialsurface of the cable conduit.
 27. A junction box according to claim 26,wherein the second sized cable conduit is a nominal 1″ cable conduit.28. A junction box according to claim 23, wherein the innermost lowerflange comprises an outer circumferential surface, the outercircumferential surface sized such that an inner circumferential surfaceof a third sized cable conduit may be slidably engaged to the outercircumferential surface and wherein a screw may be inserted through theouter screw hole and the intermediate screw hole to bear against anouter circumferential surface of the cable conduit.
 29. A junction boxaccording to claim 28, wherein the third sized cable conduit is anominal {fraction (3/4)}″ cable conduit.
 30. A junction box according toclaim 2 comprising a first side knock-out element located on a firstside of the of the base member, the first side knock-out elementremovable from the base member to form a first side aperture therein,such that a cable may extend through the first side aperture and intothe enclosure.
 31. A junction box according to claim 30 comprising asecond side knock-out element located on a second side of the basemember opposite the first side of the base member, the second sideknock-out element removable from the base member to form a second sideaperture therein, such that a cable may extend through the second sideaperture and into the enclosure.
 32. A junction box according to claim3, wherein the one or more lower knock-out elements comprise an innerknock-out element located inside a diameter of an innermost one of theplurality of concentric lower flanges.
 33. A junction box according toclaim 32, wherein the one or more lower knock-out elements comprise asecond knock-out element located outside the diameter of the innermostone of the plurality of concentric lower flanges and inside the diameterof a second one of the plurality of concentric lower flanges, theinnermost one of the plurality of concentric lower flanges attached tothe second knock-out element and removable therewith.
 34. A junction boxaccording to claim 33, wherein the one or more lower knock-out elementscomprise a third knock-out element located outside the diameter of thesecond one of the plurality of concentric lower flanges and inside thediameter of the outermost one of the plurality of concentric lowerflanges, the second one of the plurality of concentric lower flangesattached to the third knock-out element and removable therewith.
 35. Ajunction box according to claim 1 comprising a pair of side flanges, oneof which is mounted to either side of the base member, each of the sideflanges comprising an angled member which extends outwardly from theside of the base member.
 36. A junction box according to claim 1,wherein a mounting position of the side flanges on the base member isadjustable, such that the side flanges may be moved closer to or furtherfrom the lid member.
 37. A junction box according to claim 36, whereinthe side flanges are secured to the interior framework of a verticalwall.
 38. A junction box according to claim 35, wherein the side flangesare made of metal.
 39. A junction box for receiving electrical cablesand for housing electrical components, the apparatus comprising: a basemember having a recessed region therein; a lid member positionable overthe recessed region of the base member to form an enclosure, the lidmember and base member coupleable on one side by one or more hinges; aplurality of concentric lower flanges extending from a lower surface ofthe base member, wherein a first cable conduit may be slidably engagedto one of the plurality of lower flanges; a plurality of concentricupper flanges extending from an upper surface of the base member; andone or more upper knock-out elements located on the upper surface of thebase member inside a diameter of the outermost one of the plurality ofconcentric upper flanges, the one or more upper knock-out elementsremovable from the base member to form an upper aperture therein, suchthat a cable may extend from an interior of the second cable conduitthrough the upper aperture and into the enclosure, wherein the pluralityof concentric upper flanges comprises an innermost upper flange and anoutermost upper flange, the outermost upper flange comprising a firstouter circumferential surface, the first outer circumferential surfacesized such that an inner circumferential surface of a first sized cableconduit may be slidably engaged to the first outer circumferentialsurface and the innermost upper flange comprising a second outercircumferential surface, the second outer circumferential surface sizedsuch that an inner circumferential surface of a second sized cableconduit may be slidably engaged to the second outer circumferentialsurface.
 40. A junction box for receiving electrical cables and forhousing electrical components, the apparatus comprising: a base memberhaving a recessed region therein; a lid member positionable over therecessed region of the base member to form an enclosure, the lid memberand base member coupleable on one side by one or more hinges; aplurality of concentric lower flanges extending from a lower surface ofthe base member; a plurality of concentric upper flanges extending froman upper surface of the base member, wherein an upper cable conduit maybe slidably engaged to one of the plurality upper flanges; and one ormore upper knock-out elements located on the upper surface of the basemember inside a diameter of the outermost one of the plurality ofconcentric upper flanges, the one or more upper knock-out elementsremovable from the base member to form an upper aperture therein, suchthat a cable may extend from an interior of the upper cable conduitthrough the upper aperture and into the enclosure, wherein the pluralityof concentric lower flanges comprises an outermost lower flange havingan outer screw hole extending radially through the outermost lowerflange, an intermediate lower flange having an intermediate screw holeradially aligned with the outer screw hole, and an innermost lowerflange, the outermost lower flange comprising a first innercircumferential surface, the first inner circumferential surface sizedsuch that an outer circumferential surface of a first sized cableconduit may be slidably engaged to the first inner circumferentialsurface and wherein a screw may be inserted through the outer screw holeto bear against the outer circumferential surface of the first sizedcable conduit, the intermediate lower flange comprising a second innercircumferential surface, the second inner circumferential surface sizedsuch that an outer circumferential surface of a second sized cableconduit may be slidably engaged to the second inner circumferentialsurface and wherein a screw may be inserted through the outer screw holeand the intermediate screw hole to bear against the outercircumferential surface of the second sized cable conduit, and theinnermost lower flange comprising an outer circumferential surface, theouter circumferential surface sized such that an inner circumferentialsurface of a third sized cable conduit may be slidably engaged to theouter circumferential surface and wherein a screw may be insertedthrough the outer screw hole and the intermediate screw hole to bearagainst an outer circumferential surface of the third sized cableconduit.
 41. A junction box for receiving electrical cables and forhousing electrical components, the apparatus comprising: a base memberhaving a recessed region therein; a lid member positionable over therecessed region of the base member to form an enclosure, the lid memberand base member coupleable on one side by one or more hinges and on aside opposite the one or more hinges by a clasp assembly, the claspassembly comprising: a base clasp flange extending outwardly from thebase member; a lid clasp flange extending outwardly from the lid member;and an intermediate clasp member,  wherein the base and lid claspflanges may both be independently locked to, and unlocked from, theintermediate clasp member; a plurality of concentric lower flangesextending from a lower surface of the base member, wherein a first cableconduit may be slidably engaged to one of the plurality of lowerflanges; a plurality of concentric upper flanges extending from an uppersurface of the base member, wherein a second cable conduit may beslidably engaged to one of the plurality upper flanges; one or moreupper knock-out elements located on the upper surface of the base memberinside a diameter of the outermost one of the plurality of concentricupper flanges, the one or more upper knock-out elements removable fromthe base member to form an upper aperture therein, such that a cable mayextend from an interior of the second cable conduit through the upperaperture and into the enclosure; a first back aperture located on arecessed surface of the base member, such that a cable may extendthrough the first back aperture and into the enclosure; and an elongatedknock-out element contiguous with the first back aperture on therecessed surface of the base member, the extended knock-out elementremovable from the base member form an elongated the first backaperture.
 42. A junction box for receiving electrical cables and forhousing electrical components, the apparatus comprising: a base memberhaving a recessed region therein; a lid member positionable over therecessed region of the base member to form an enclosure, the lid memberand base member coupleable on one side by one or more hinges; aplurality of concentric lower flanges extending from a lower surface ofthe base member, wherein a first cable conduit may be slidably engagedto one of the plurality of lower flanges; a plurality of concentricupper flanges extending from an upper surface of the base member,wherein a second cable conduit may be slidably engaged to one of theplurality upper flanges; one or more upper knock-out elements located onthe upper surface of the base member inside a diameter of the outermostone of the plurality of concentric upper flanges, the one or more upperknock-out elements removable from the base member to form an upperaperture therein, such that a cable may extend from an interior of thesecond cable conduit through the upper aperture and into the enclosure;a first back aperture located on a recessed surface of the base member,such that a cable may extend through the first back aperture and intothe enclosure; and an elongated knock-out element contiguous with thefirst back aperture on the recessed surface of the base member, theextended knock-out element removable from the base member to form anelongated first back aperture.
 43. A junction box for receivingelectrical cables and for housing electrical components, the apparatuscomprising: a base member having a recessed region therein; and a lidmember positionable over the recessed region of the base member to forman enclosure, the lid member and base member coupleable on one side byone or more hinges; a plurality of concentric lower flanges extendingfrom a lower surface of the base member, wherein a first cable conduitmay be slidably engaged to one of the plurality of lower flanges; aplurality of concentric upper flanges extending from an upper surface ofthe base member, wherein a second cable conduit may be slidably engagedto one of the plurality upper flanges; and one or more upper knock-outelements located on the upper surface of the base member inside adiameter of the outermost one of the plurality of concentric upperflanges, the one or more upper knock-out elements removable from thebase member to form an upper aperture therein, such that a cable mayextend from an interior of the second cable conduit through the upperaperture and into the enclosure.